Art from Sri Lanka at the 58th Venice Biennale

Contemporary artist Anoma Wijewardene holds the distinction of being the first Sri Lankan solo artist to exhibit at the prestigious Venice Biennale in 2019.

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Her paintings and installations seen around the world including in London, Sydney, Dubai, Hong Kong, India and the Maldives, reflect themes of sustainability, diversity and peace. The exhibition in Venice, titled 'Kintsugi', offered not just a personal vision but a powerful artistic voice from the Global South. 'Kintsugi' is more than an installation - it is a meditative act of resistance, a poetic celebration of repair, and a quiet call for unity, and is now permanently housed at Cinnamon Life in Colombo, where it continues to draw viewers into its immersive, multi-sensory world—inviting reflection, healing, and the possibility of transformation. Celebrating Italian National Day, Anoma reflects on her experience at the Venice Biennale and Italy's inspiration on her works.

ANOMA, YOU'VE MADE HISTORY AS THE FIRST SRI LANKAN SOLO ARTIST TO EXHIBIT AT THE VENICE BIENNALE, OFTEN CONSIDERED THE OSCARS OR OLYMPICS OF THE ART WORLD. WHAT DID THIS MILESTONE MEAN TO YOU PERSONALLY AND NATIONALLY?

Anoma Wijewardene: It was both a deeply personal and national honour. To exhibit at the most prestigious international platform for art was overwhelming—in the best way. While the '43 Group' had a collective presence at the Biennale in the 1950's, this was the first time a solo Sri Lankan artist was invited. I felt a strong responsibility to represent not only my own voice and societal concerns but also a wider narrative from our region—one of healing and harmony through diversity, inclusivity and resilience.

YOU'VE EXHIBITED IN CITIES FROM LONDON TO SYDNEY. WAS THIS YOUR FIRST SHOWING IN ITALY?